Caramel Apple Dessert Cups Recipe | Easy No-Bake Fall Treat

If you’re craving a sweet treat that combines the warm flavors of fall with a quick, no-bake method, these Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are perfect. With layers of spiced apples, creamy filling, crushed cookies, and gooey caramel sauce, this easy dessert is ideal for holiday parties, family gatherings, or a cozy night in. The best part? You can whip them up in under 30 minutes without turning on the oven!

Why You’ll Love These Dessert Cups

Caramel apples are a classic fall favorite, but dipping and coating apples can be messy and time-consuming. These mini dessert cups deliver the same nostalgic flavor with a fraction of the effort. The layers of cinnamon-spiced apples, creamy cheesecake-style filling, and crunchy cookie crumbs make them irresistible. Plus, they look beautiful served in small glasses or jars—perfect for entertaining!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make caramel apple cups, gather the following ingredients:

3 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best)
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1 cup crushed graham crackers, Biscoff cookies, or digestive biscuits
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 cup whipped cream (or whipped topping)
1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Pinch of salt (optional, for salted caramel flavor)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the apples – Peel, core, and dice the apples. In a skillet, melt butter and add apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook for 6–8 minutes until soft and caramelized. Set aside to cool.
Make the creamy layer – In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in whipped cream until fluffy.
Prepare the cookie base – Crush graham crackers or cookies into fine crumbs. You can add a teaspoon of melted butter to help them stick, if desired.
Assemble the cups – In small dessert glasses or jars, layer cookie crumbs, cream cheese filling, caramelized apples, and a drizzle of caramel sauce. Repeat layers until the cup is filled.
Finish & serve – Top with extra whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a mini apple slice for garnish. Serve immediately or chill for 1–2 hours for a firmer texture.

Tips & Variations

Make it no-bake cheesecake style: Add more cream cheese filling for a richer, cheesecake-like dessert cup.
Add crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans, walnuts, or granola between layers.
Individual portions: Use mason jars or plastic cups for parties and make-ahead convenience.
Holiday twist: Use gingerbread cookies instead of graham crackers for a festive Christmas version.

Final Thoughts

These Caramel Apple Dessert Cups are a quick, delicious, and elegant way to enjoy the flavors of caramel apples without the fuss. With creamy layers, crunchy cookie crumbs, and warm spiced apples, they’re the ultimate fall and holiday dessert. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner, a Halloween party, or just want a cozy weeknight treat, this no-bake recipe is sure to impress.